Lots of new Dukes, Hurmu

[Scott of Hyperborea]

Does it feel like the 11th century ASC to anyone else here? Shireroth is annexing places left and right; after our successful absorption of Hawshire, the Landsraad is now debating extending Territory status to Hurmu, legendary Lyrican land of lakes. Adding to the historical atmosphere, Arvidur has been investigating the Shirerithian monarchy, and Malliki has made the dynastic list into a spreadsheet.

Three new Dukes earn their coronets this week. Aryeztur replaces Yvain as Duke of Goldshire, Daniel "Ric" Llai replaces Malliki as Duke of Brookshire, and Scott replaces Ari as Duke of Straylight, which may soon get absorbed by Yardistan. It's so hard to keep track of nobility these days, so be sure to help our new citizens - for example, Bjorn Ironfist, who joined last Ifniday and is on track for a County-level position in Elwynn.

Outside our sacred soil, a few glints of line shine out of the general barbarism of the foreign world. The MCS is once again hosting their yearly Fnord awards ceremony, so get over there and nominate anyone you think deserves international recognition. Antica hotly debates joining the Commonwealth, and the Commonwealth itself debates electing a new Secundus to replace the Kaiserified Jonas (Shirekeep bookies are offering 5:1 odds on Harvey).

One of the two Diplomacy games winds down, with Scott (England) and the Mayer brothers (Turkey) tying for first, and Italy getting honorable mention. The second continues, but needs a new France - will you take up the Gallic cause? What's next? Shireroth monopoly? Malarbor places a hotel on Mattlore Devious Airport and two houses on Landsraad Front Gate!